they want to know what the president will do over the course of the next four years. and how exactly we'll get there. >> reporter: with polls showing mr. obama leading in the crucial swing states, top aides have encouraged the president to be himself, don't change what's working, one senior adviser said. for his part romney's advisers say he's prepared, that he just needs to convey his message clearly on the biggest stage of his political career. and throughout the primary debates, brian, mitt romney would write his father's name, george romney, on the top of his notepad. his father, of course, being his inspiration. he would also write one other letter, "o" to remind him to focus on president obama. but tonight when they are finally side by side, he probably won't need any reminders. >> peter alexander in the hall, thanks for starting us off tonight. >>> now over to our political director and chief white house correspondent chuck todd also at the venue tonight. chuck, what's the task for both sides, for both men? >> reporter: well, i can tell you that both campaigns